A First Timer’s Guide To Home Educating Your Teen
Welcome! 👋 We know that thinking about whether to home educate your teenager for the first time can be daunting! So we’ve pulled together below everything we wished we’d know before we got started…
As homeschooling becomes a more popular choice for parents, especially since the Covid-19 pandemic, many are exploring the exciting (but sometimes overwhelming) idea of teaching their teenagers at home. With families looking for more personalised education, it's important in the beginning to understand the rules and options available here in the UK.
Homeschooling offers incredible flexibility, but it also comes with some big responsibilities and challenges. That’s why it's important for parents to get to grips with the legal side of things, think about what approach they're going to take, and find effective ways to keep their teens engaged. From informing local authorities to creating a space where learning thrives, understanding the essentials of homeschooling can help families give their teens the best start in life possible.
In this simple, plain English guide, we'll take you through the legal requirements for homeschooling in the UK, share tips for planning your approach, show you how to set up a welcoming learning environment, and highlight the resources that can make homeschooling easier. Come along as we explore the many rewards and challenges of homeschooling your teen, helping you navigate this sometimes overwhelming journey!
Legal Requirements for Homeschooling in the UK
Homeschooling a teenager in the UK can feel like a big step, but it’s important to know that it’s a legal option available to parents. While there’s a lot of flexibility in how you choose to educate your teen, there are a few things you need to keep in mind to make sure you’re meeting the legal requirements.
Understanding Your Legal Obligations
In the UK, parents have the legal right to home educate their children (called Elective Home Education or EHE). This means you can teach your child at home without needing approval from your local authority, though you do need to ensure that your child is getting a suitable full-time education. The great news is that this doesn't have to follow the national curriculum or traditional school hours, so you can really tailor it to suit your child’s needs.
You don’t need to be a qualified teacher, and your homeschooling approach isn’t subject to Ofsted inspections. However, it’s important that the education you provide is appropriate for your child’s age and abilities, including any special educational needs they might have.
Notifying Local Authorities
If your child has never been to school, you don’t need to inform the local authority. But if your child is already attending a mainstream school, you’ll need to formally withdraw them by notifying the headteacher. Once you do this, the school will inform the local authority.
If your teenager is in a special school with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), you’ll need to get permission from the local authority before taking them off the school roll. While you’re not required to respond to informal enquiries from the local authority’s Home Education Officer, it can be helpful to show that you’re following the guidelines and keeping them in the loop.
If the local authority feels that your child isn’t getting a suitable and efficient full time education, they may ask you to provide more information or take action. While this doesn’t happen often, it’s good to know your rights and responsibilities in case the local authority raises concerns.
Potential Inspections by Local Authorities
Local authorities have the responsibility to ensure that homeschooled children receive a 'suitable education', although they do not have a statutory duty to frequently monitor the quality of that education. Parents are not legally obliged to respond to informal enquiries or attend meetings suggested by their local Home Education Officer. However, cooperation can be helpful to demonstrate that you are doing what is required.
Although inspections are not conducted through formal Ofsted-type assessments, local authorities might request annual evidence of the child's education, such as written reports or samples of work. They might look for consistent parental involvement and that they are meeting the child's needs.
Under the Education and Inspections Act 2006, it is a requirement for local authorities to identify children of compulsory school age who are not being taught in a formal school setting and check whether they are receiving a suitable alternative education.
By understanding these legal frameworks, you can effectively navigate the homeschooling in the UK and provide your teenager with a personalised and effective education.
Tailoring Education to Your Teen’s Needs
Homeschooling offers a world of flexibility, allowing parents to choose the approach that best fits their teenager's learning style, interests, and family life. Whether you follow a more traditional route with qualifications like GCSEs and A-Levels or lean into unschooling, where your teen learns through exploration and real-world experiences, there are countless ways to design an education that works. You can even take a middle path, combining structured learning with more flexible, interest-driven activities. What's important is finding the right fit for your teen - and possibly even for each child in your family, as their needs might differ.
There’s no legal requirement in the UK for homeschooling families to follow a specific curriculum, but it’s essential to ensure the education is suitable for your child’s age and abilities. This means making sure your teenager stays engaged and motivated, whether they’re working towards formal qualifications or exploring learning more informally. This section will walk you through how to make a plan that suits your child’s learning style and your family’s lifestyle.
Selecting Subjects for Study: Personalising the Learning Experience
When choosing subjects, it’s important to consider both your teenager’s interests and their future goals. Some students thrive with a structured approach such as online lessons via an online school, while others might benefit from a more flexible or self-guided experience or anywhere in between. Homeschooling allows you to focus on what truly excites your child, which can lead to deeper engagement and better outcomes. While core subjects like English, Maths, and Science are commonly included in homeschooling plans, there’s no rule saying you have to stick to them - your teen may be more interested in other areas or ready to go deeper into subjects they’re passionate about.
Keep in mind that some children, even within the same family, may need a different approach. One might flourish in a more traditional academic setting, while another might do better with an unschooling approach. By adapting your approach to suit each child's needs, you can create a learning experience that works for everyone.
Resources for Homeschooling: Exploring Your Options
The range of learning resources available for homeschooling in the UK is vast, offering both structured and flexible options. For a more traditional approach, you might choose a set curriculum for subjects like GCSEs or A-Levels delivered through an online school, or even with a private tutor or group tuition. These can offer a solid foundation and help ensure that key subjects are covered and if you're teen wants to go to college in the future this can be a good route for them. If you’re looking for a more flexible approach, you can select materials that align with your teenager's learning style - whether that’s project-based learning, online courses, or hands-on activities.
Examination Pathways: GCSEs and A-Levels
If your teen is working towards GCSEs or A-Levels, you’ll need to plan for the exam process. This includes selecting an exam board and registering with an exam centre. Registration for these exams typically happens by January for the exams in May or June. While there are costs involved, for example exam fees typically ranging between £100 and £300, homeschooling students often perform well in exams. The less stressful environment of home education, combined with more personalised learning, can be a big advantage.
You have the option to register your child as an external candidate at a local school or exam centre, which allows them to sit exams without being enrolled in a formal school. This flexibility allows your teen to work towards standard qualifications while still benefiting from the freedom of homeschooling.
Flexibility of No Set Curriculum: Creating the Right Learning Path
One of the key advantages of homeschooling is the flexibility it offers. Parents can design a learning experience that suits their child’s unique needs, interests, and pace. The UK Education Act 1996 supports this flexibility, stating that parents only need to ensure their child receives a suitable education for their age and ability. This means you can adjust the learning schedule and approach to best fit your family’s needs - whether it’s a full-time or part-time homeschooling setup.
While some families choose resources that align with the UK National Curriculum, it’s not a requirement. You have the freedom to explore different resources and teaching methods that resonate with your child, creating a more engaging and personalised educational experience. The key is finding what works best for your teenager, whether that’s through structured lessons or more relaxed, discovery-based learning.
Examination Pathways: GCSEs and A-Levels
For teenagers pursuing GCSEs or A-Levels through homeschooling, the process starts with selecting an appropriate exam board and registering with an exam centre. Registration for these exams generally occurs by January for the following May and June. It's important to consider that the average cost for these exams ranges between £50 and £60.
Interestingly, research suggests that homeschooled children tend to score higher on public exams, often attributed to the less stressful, personalized setting of home education. Parents can choose to register their children as external candidates at local schools or designated exam centres. This flexibility ensures that homeschooling students can pursue standard qualifications while benefiting from tailored educational approaches.
Flexibility of No Set Curriculum
One of the most appealing aspects of homeschooling in the UK is the freedom it allows. Parents can design educational experiences that cater specifically to their child’s needs, without being tied to a fixed curriculum. Under the Education Act 1996, homeschooling is legally supported, requiring parents only to ensure the education provided is suitable for their child’s age and ability. This flexibility extends to both full-time and part-time education at home, providing families the opportunity to adjust their schedules to best fit their educational goals.
Although numerous resources align with the UK National Curriculum, they are not mandatory. Parents have the liberty to select resources that resonate with their child’s unique learning style, fostering a more engaging and effective educational journey.
Creating a Learning Environment
Creating a positive, supportive learning environment is one of the most important aspects of homeschooling your teenager. A well-thought-out space and routine can make a big difference in how your teen engages with their studies. While homeschooling allows you to tailor the experience to your child's needs and preferences, it's also essential to ensure the learning process is focused on their growth. By arranging your physical space, planning daily activities, and creating an atmosphere of encouragement, you can help your teen thrive.
Designing a Dedicated Learning Space
One of the best ways to boost focus is by setting up a dedicated learning space in your home if you can. This doesn’t need to be a separate room - sometimes a cozy corner in the kitchen or living room can work just as well. The key is to create a clear distinction between study areas and relaxation zones, which helps your teen switch between work and leisure more easily. A tidy, organised study space also promotes concentration and makes the homeschooling experience feel more enjoyable and intentional for both you and your child.
Establishing a Flexible or Structured Schedule, or no Schedule at all
A structured yet flexible daily schedule can be helpful for homeschooling success but isn't necessary for all children. For some, a balance of learning and flexibility ensures that things remain manageable without overwhelming your teen. Planning what they're going to do ahead of time, can be helpful, but won't suit all children. You might also find you have to try different approaches before you rest on one that works for your teenager.
Fostering a Supportive Learning Atmosphere
For homeschooling to be successful, your teen needs to feel supported, motivated, and encouraged. The right environment allows them to take charge of their learning and explore subjects in-depth if that's what they want. While homeschooling can be a rewarding journey, it also comes with its challenges. It's important to approach this decision with dedication and awareness of the responsibilities involved. Parents take full responsibility for the cost and provision of education, ensuring it meets their teen’s unique needs.
A supportive, open-minded atmosphere can also extend beyond the learning environment. Consider incorporating real-life learning opportunities - like visits to farms, museums, or local businesses - that can add depth to your teen’s education across various subjects. By fostering a space where they feel encouraged to explore, you’re setting them up for a fulfilling, engaging homeschool experience.
Engaging Your Teen in Learning
Homeschooling offers a fantastic opportunity to tap into your teenager's natural curiosity and learning potential. With one-to-one or even self-directed learning, you can make impressive progress in a much shorter time than traditional schools. Imagine getting a full day’s worth of learning done in just two hours - that’s the kind of efficiency homeschooling can offer! This flexibility means learning can happen at times that suit your teen’s rhythm, helping them engage more deeply with their education.
In a homeschool setting, distractions are fewer, which can lead to better focus and concentration. With individual attention, learning strategies can be tailored to suit your teen’s specific needs, allowing them to reach their full potential. Plus, a supportive, comfortable environment encourages even the quietest teens to ask questions, building their confidence and making learning feel more interactive.
Strategies for Keeping Teens Motivated
Keeping your teen motivated while homeschooling can be both a fun and rewarding challenge. One helpful strategy is to create a balanced daily schedule that includes study time, active breaks, and clear rules around things like phone use. Setting limits on phone and social media distractions can help prevent feelings of isolation and maintain focus.
Physical activities also play a key role in motivation. Whether it’s joining a local sports team, going for walks, or playing games as a family, getting active boosts both physical health and mental engagement. The flexibility of homeschooling means you can find a routine that keeps your teen excited about learning without sacrificing their well-being.
Pros and Cons of Homeschooling
Homeschooling in the UK is becoming an increasingly popular option for parents looking for a more personalised and flexible education for their children. It offers the chance to craft a learning experience that is as unique as each student, but, like any choice, it comes with its own set of advantages and challenges. With the flexibility to design a schedule and curriculum that fits your child’s needs, homeschooling can be a great fit for students who may not thrive in traditional school settings. However, it's important to consider both the benefits and the challenges as you weigh this option.
Benefits of Individualised Learning
One of the best things about homeschooling is the ability to provide a tailored education. You can design a learning plan that matches your child’s interests, strengths, and areas where they may need more support. This can make learning more engaging and motivating, helping your child gain confidence in their abilities.
Homeschooling also offers plenty of room for creativity. You’re not limited by a traditional classroom schedule, so you can incorporate different learning styles and hands-on experiences, such as outdoor lessons, physical activities, or field trips. This can help provide a well-rounded education, allowing your child to explore subjects in greater depth and promoting a love of learning that lasts a lifetime.
Opportunities for Social Development
It’s a common misconception that homeschooled children miss out on socialising. In reality, homeschooling offers a lot of flexibility when it comes to meeting new people and developing social skills. Without the peer pressures that can often come with traditional schools, teens have the chance to interact in a variety of settings with children and adults of all ages - whether through community groups like Scouts, sports clubs, or volunteering.
Homeschooling networks and communities also provide opportunities for social interaction, where families can connect, share experiences, and learn together. Plus, homeschooling can strengthen family bonds, creating an environment where shared values are nurtured, which can contribute positively to your child's social and emotional development. Studies show that homeschooled children often thrive socially, emotionally, and psychologically, and may even outperform their peers in some areas.
Challenges in Homeschooling
While there are many positives to homeschooling, it’s not without its challenges. For instance, navigating university applications - such as filling out UCAS forms or securing references - can be tricky if you’re not familiar with the process. Some stages, like A-Levels, can also be tough, especially for subjects that involve a lot of practical work.
Additionally, not all A-Level options may be available to homeschoolers, which could impact your child’s future educational and career opportunities. Parents who choose to homeschool are responsible for ensuring that their child receives a full-time, efficient education, which can be a big commitment compared to the more structured approach of traditional schools.
Potential Costs Involved
Homeschooling comes with a financial commitment that parents need to be prepared for, as Local Authorities and the government do not provide funding for elective home education. You’ll need to budget for things like public exams, with GCSEs costing from £90 each and A-Levels ranging from £100, plus any additional fees from exam centres (typically £60 to £300 per exam).
Other expenses to keep in mind include educational materials, field trips, sports activities, and any extracurricular opportunities that are part of your homeschooling plan. While some Local Authorities may offer limited financial aid to homeschooling families, this should not be counted on as a guaranteed source of funding.
By considering these costs and responsibilities, parents can make a well-informed decision about whether homeschooling is the right choice for their family, weighing the benefits against the potential challenges and financial commitments.
Incorporating Technology in Education
Technology is a game-changer in homeschooling, offering a wealth of resources to make learning more engaging and effective. Platforms like MyTutor and Khan Academy provide videos and interactive activities that cover key subjects like Maths, Science, and Languages. BBC Bitesize is another fantastic and free resource with content tailored to different levels and exam boards.
For interactive learning to GCSE level, EdPlace offers thousands of activities designed to keep students engaged while covering important topics. Platforms like Zoom can also be used for group lessons, helping your teen feel connected and part of a learning community.
If exam prep is on the horizon, resources like SaveMyExams provide practice papers and revision materials to help homeschoolers stay on track with academic standards and prepare for higher-level studies.
Encouraging Extracurricular Activities
Extracurricular activities are essential for a balanced education and can offer a refreshing break from core subjects. Whether it’s design technology or physical education, you can teach these subjects creatively, making learning fun and interactive.
Subjects like history and geography are also valuable as they help develop skills that will be useful in future qualifications or careers, such as politics, environmental science, or even journalism. These subjects don’t just enhance your teen’s education - they open doors to new perspectives and future opportunities.
Homeschooling families often get creative with extracurricular activities, finding ways to incorporate community sports, arts programs, or even online clubs. Many online schools also offer in-person events and social meetups, ensuring your teen has plenty of chances to socialize and engage with others.
By adding extracurriculars to your homeschooling routine, you help your teen develop important social skills, explore their creative side, and discover new interests - ensuring a well-rounded and enriching education.
Resources for Homeschooling Families
Switching to homeschooling can be a rewarding journey for both teens and their families. With the right resources in hand, it’s possible to create a learning experience that not only fosters academic success (if that's what you want) but also encourages personal growth. This guide offers UK homeschooling families some helpful ideas and resources to support their homeschooling journey, catering to different learning styles and needs.
Online Platforms and Tools
In today’s digital world, there’s a wealth of online resources available to homeschooling families. Here are a few great platforms to check out:
Oak National Academy – This platform offers free, structured video lessons across a variety of subjects for Key Stage 3. Each lesson lasts around an hour and includes teacher-led explanations, worksheets, and quizzes, making learning interactive and engaging.
Continuity Oak – This resource provides additional materials for subjects like Science, Geography, History, and Art, offering variety for homeschooling families who want to broaden their child's learning experience.
Khan Academy – Although it’s based on the American curriculum, Khan Academy offers a huge library of resources and lesson plans that can be really useful for families looking for self-paced learning and a deeper understanding of different subjects.
BBC Bitesize – A fantastic tool for targeted study, BBC Bitesize categorizes resources by educational level, exam board, and subject. It includes interactive quizzes to help reinforce learning.
MyTutor – Offering access to over 10,000 model exam questions, MyTutor also has explainer videos on their YouTube channel to help with subjects like Maths, English, and Science.
Books and Materials for Study
Homeschooling gives parents the chance to choose learning materials that work best for their child’s interests and learning style. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Costs and Selection: Parents are responsible for purchasing books and materials. The Department for Education (DfE) provides guidance on finding suitable resources to ensure a well-rounded education at home.
Freedom from the National Curriculum: While homeschooling families aren’t required to follow the National Curriculum, this freedom allows them to choose resources that are better suited to their child’s unique needs and learning style, offering a more personalized education.
Educational Trips and Visits: Real-world experiences are invaluable and can bring a new dimension to your child’s learning. Trips and visits can help them apply what they’ve learned at home in a broader context.
Supplementing with Online Tools: In addition to books, incorporating online resources can really expand your child’s learning options and provide fresh ways to explore new topics.
Support Groups and Communities
A strong support network can make homeschooling even more rewarding. Here are some communities and groups to consider:
National Support Groups: Organisations like the Home Education Advisory Service and Education Otherwise offer practical advice and support to parents who are considering or already homeschooling their children.
Local Groups and Communities: Getting involved with local homeschooling groups is a great way to meet other families, find shared resources, and take part in activities and workshops. These groups also provide opportunities for socialisation for your child.
Online Platforms: There are many online communities where homeschooling families connect, like Facebook groups, the Mumsnet HE forum, and Netmums. These digital spaces are great for sharing tips, resources, and personal experiences.
Networking Opportunities: Building connections with other homeschooling families can help you navigate common challenges, such as lesson planning and working with Local Authorities. These networks can offer both emotional support and practical help.
In conclusion, homeschooling in the UK offers a flexible and personalised approach to education. By taking advantage of the resources available, joining supportive communities, and carefully selecting educational materials, families can create an enriching and successful homeschooling experience for their children.
